Leading bridge engineer David Lee, a former chairman of consulting engineer Maunsell, has died aged 70.
Awarded a CBE for his contribution to engineering, Lee carried out pioneering work on concrete bridges, including the Mancunian Way elevated structure in Manchester and the Westway extension in west London.

Later work saw him develop glass-reinforced plastic as an alternative to steel and concrete in bridges, a move that enhanced his reputation as an innovator.

He was also noted for emphasising the aesthetic importance of engineering. His Institution of Structural Engineers presidential address was filled with references to the architect Le Corbusier and philosopher Immanuel Kant.

After suffering a stroke in 1994, Lee retired from his directorship at Maunsell, which he joined in 1955.